Living near an airport can make life convenient — except when it comes to noise.

The constant sound of planes overhead can disrupt peace and quiet, with airplane noise including both high-frequency sounds like whining and buzzing, and low-frequency rumbles from engines.

So, how effective are shutters at reducing airplane noise?

Shutters and soundproofing: what to expect

When it comes to soundproofing, every layer of insulation counts.

Windows are the most common source of outside noise entering your home, and adding plantation shutters can help.

Shutters, especially those made from high-density materials like composite or wood, create an extra barrier that dampens sound, particularly the higher frequencies from air traffic.

By providing an additional layer to your windows, shutters not only contribute to reducing noise but also improve insulation and add privacy.

However, it’s important to note that shutters alone won’t completely block out airplane noise — there are other factors involved too.

How shutters reduce noise

Plantation shutters are effective at softening incoming noise, especially when installed properly. Shutters like our Mimeo Composite Shutters and Select Ash Wood Shutters work by minimizing vibrations and blocking sound waves from fully penetrating the room.

The material, thickness, and the tightness of the fit to the window frame all influence how well they can reduce noise.

For homes near airports, where low-frequency noise is common, shutters may not completely eliminate all sound.

However, they are particularly effective when paired with double or triple glazing, further reducing unwanted noise.

Factors that affect shutter performance

  • Material: Denser materials like composite and wood block more sound than lighter materials.
  • Shutter style: Styles like full-height or solid panel shutters can provide better coverage and soundproofing compared to café-style shutters, which cover only part of the window.
  • Window type: If your windows are single-glazed, the noise reduction benefit of shutters will be limited. Double or triple glazing, paired with shutters, maximizes noise reduction.

Managing expectations: the limitations of shutters

While shutters can help and contribute to reducing airplane noise, they’re not a complete solution.

For significant soundproofing, other methods, acoustic panels, or upgrading windows, might also be needed.

However, for everyday noise reduction and added insulation, shutters remain a solid option.

If airplane noise is your main concern, focusing on proper installation and pairing shutters with other soundproofing measures will get you the best results.

How much difference could shutters make?

Think about how much quieter your home gets when you shut the windows.

Now imagine adding another solid layer—this is essentially what shutters do.

Even though they can’t block all sound, they certainly soften the blow.

Conclusion

Shutters offer a practical way to help reduce airplane noise in homes near airports.

Though they won’t block all the sound, they contribute to dampening it, making your home a bit more peaceful and insulated.

Interested in making your home quieter?

Book a free survey with us to explore how our shutters can reduce noise and improve comfort.